“He rau ringa e oti ai te mahi.”

With many hands the work will be completed.

He Rau Ringa is the name that represents the Joint Subject Associations of Aotearoa New Zealand. Drawn from the whakataukĪ “He rau ringa e oti ai te mahi”, the name reflects the belief that meaningful work is achieved when many hands contribute.

This identity speaks to the kaupapa of the Collective. Each subject association holds expertise, perspective and responsibility for its own community. Together, these expert hands strengthen our shared ability to advocate for high quality education, support teachers and learners, and influence national curriculum, assessment and policy.

He Rau Ringa acknowledges unity without diminishing autonomy. Associations remain independent, yet choose to collaborate when a collective voice can make a meaningful difference. The name affirms the principles of this MOU, including transparency, trust, constructive collaboration and equitable participation.

As a guiding metaphor, He Rau Ringa reminds us that the strength of the collective lies in the breadth and depth of its members. Through shared purpose and coordinated action, the work of many hands supports the wellbeing of the education system and the people it serves.